TERRA LINDA High standout Alyssa Ross could have been a top pitcher in the MCAL this season. But she is also one of the league's best catchers. So, with freshman hurler Ashley Bottomley on the team, Ross' value is now greater behind the plate than in front of it.

"The freshman pitcher has really demonstrated that she's ready now," Terra Linda coach Brad Lucchi said. "Ashley has shown she's ready to handle it. It gives us somewhat of a luxury. Alyssa is one of the best catchers in the league and through the first (three) games, Ashley has answered the question."

Ross, one of team's co-captains, doesn't see the situation as a bad thing. She loves to catch and when called upon to take the ball, she'll do that too.

"I really just want to do whatever the team needs me to do. That was my main thing, ever since I was a freshman," said Ross, who had a 0.97 ERA in 86 2/3 innings last season. "Whatever you need me to do, that's what I'm here for, whether it's hitting or catching or pitching or infield or even outfield. I just want to do what's good for the team."

Having a veteran behind the dish that also has experience pitching certainly helps Bottomley develop her game.

"(Alyssa) always motivates me and she knows exactly what to say when I'm in a situation to help me re-focus when I get frustrated," said Bottomley, already with three complete games to her credit. "We've gotten to know each other pretty well so far. She knows what to call and when to call it because she's a pitcher."

Ross is also an accomplished hitter, batting .462 with eight home runs and 36 RBIs last season. Combined with her ability to pitch, catch and hit the ball out of the park, Ross remains a candidate for player of the year. Being the power hitter that she is, Ross says there's no secret to her approach at the plate.

"My goal ever since I started playing softball was just putting the ball in play," Ross said. "If you do that you put pressure on the defense and you put pressure on the other team. If you make solid contact, there's a chance it will go over the fence."

The Trojans also had to do some shuffling when shortstop Ally Lucchi graduated after last season. Last year's all-MCAL first team center fielder, Macauley Prickett, has stepped in to fill the void at short.

"It's hard for me, on my travel team I play outfield," said Prickett, who batted .500 and led the league in stolen bases with 33 on 33 attempts. "I think it's a bigger commitment and it's more leading the team when you're in the infield at shortstop. It's fun and I'm up for the challenge."

With Prickett as a potential league MVP as well, the Trojans are slated to be a top contender for the MCAL championship, which is just fine with them.

"We have goals of going far, but we're really going to have to work hard in practice," Ross said. "I think if we work really hard and practice and practice we have a shot."

"I think we're ready to take on anybody who wants to challenge us," Prickett added. "I think we can do it this year."